Tooth Brushing
Tooth Brushing
When: 2 times per day and rinse after each meal.
With: A soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
How: Use a dry brush with a small amount of toothpaste. Use circular motions around the gum lines and the surfaces of your teeth, 10 Seconds on each tooth. At an angle, work bristles of brush over, under and past the wire that runs From one tooth to another. Then brush the chewing surfaces of your teeth and brush your tongue and the roof of your mouth as well. Rinse thoroughly.
When: At least 3 times a week.
With: Dental floss and floss threader.
How: Insert floss into threader. Place threader between gums or under the wire. Floss using an up and down motion along the teeth. When you are finished look in the mirror to be sure your teeth and braces are shiny and your gums are firm. If your gums are sore and/or bleeding, rinse them with salt water. These problems will quickly disappear with proper oral hygiene.
Additional Aides to Keep Your Teeth Clean and Healthy
* Water pik
* Anti-plaque, pre-brushing rinse
* A fluoride rinse or gel for extra protection
* Interplak or Rotadent mechanical toothbrushes
Waterpik Tip
The Waterpik can be an incredible help when cleaning a permanent retainer or traditional bracket style braces. I definitely recommend getting the more powerful counter top model. You'll find that after a few uses, not only will it be easier to clean between teeth, but your gums will be healthier as well.
I watch some TV, I've found it to be effective to sit down in front of the TV daily with a toothbrush without toothpaste, and massage the teeth and gums with the toothbrush bristles for about 30 minutes. Thirty minutes gives you plenty of time to do a good job, and makes TV time more productive. Brushing while listening to music or studying is also accptable. The most important time to brush is just before going to bed. So PLEASE take your time and do it right♥.
-♥Essie☺
